However, I do not have all the cases, and it is likely that there is some complexity in your case I am unaware of; such as immigration issues, section 8 issues, or other governmental subsidies that make this thrice as hard.

First, I wAnt to let you know that I am an immigrant here in Canada for almost 7 yrs and still working on my permanent residence.

I have strong credit (760) though my wife has a limited credit history as she is now immigrating to the country.  

My wife volunteers with a non-profit organization that helps international refugees and immigrants learn English and assimilate into American culture. 

As I’m not just going to give up on my dream, I was hoping somebody here on Biggerpockets would be able to point me in the direction of a possible path I could follow.Will I have to go trough the hard immigration process or can I come up with a creative solution?

Ours are all immigrants and working class people.  

Texas' immigrants, both legal & illegal, were hit hard by the new regulations.  

For a studio vacancy that came up in September, I rented to an immigrant family of 3 with good credit but marginal income who is downsizing so their daughter can attend college rather a single professional.Not sure this is the optimal approach for me, but it's the best I've considered so far.

I am challenged by your courage to give up security and dive head first into real estate.I could totally relate to your dad saying, "not to trade security for uncertainty".That is the mantra of typical Asian parents, especially 1st generation immigrants.  

Your next best bet to find something cheap is the North End which is about 3 Miles North of Downtown, but off Woodward and Oakland Aves, or maybe the east Jefferson Area.Also, if your Spanish is pretty solid, and can handle dealing with people without a verifiable job, or immigration papers, SW Detroit, in Mexican Village could be an option.In all these places I mentioned you better be ready to dig in hard on a renovation, and take control of the property.